Landfills will be a little emptier this weekend, thanks to a fun, kid-friendly program at the Richmond Art Center.

The program, the second annual Upcycle, is a maker festival where families can create, see and learn about the art of "upcycling," creatively reusing materials otherwise headed for the garbage.

Over the course of the day, visitors will be able to sew bags and quilts from old pieces of clothing, weave small rugs from old T-shirts, use broken plates and tiles to create a colorful mosaic trash can, turn use bicycle inner tubes into jewelry, and experience the magic of fire and metal to fold-form 3-D objects. In many cases, participating families will be able to engage in these activities with the help of local artists, too, taking direction from creative minds who work with upcycled materials every day.

"Most of us are so far removed from the art of making things," said Teri Gardiner, a spokesperson for the art center. "What makes this event special isn't only the fact that we're giving families that opportunity but that we're giving them the chance to do it together."

Of course another special aspect of the event is affordability: Because all of the materials already have been earmarked for local dumps, they are free.

As Gardiner explained it, the Upcycle event pays homage to Earth Day, which is celebrated around the world on April 22. She added that the bash isn't only about making art; there also will be musical performances from artists who have incorporated upcycling into their instruments and their craft.

For example, singer-songwriter Tom Nunn makes his "skatchboxes" from combs, toothpicks and washers. The band Crank Ensemble makes music utilizing Popsicle sticks, rubber bands and straws. Visitors also will be able to tour some upcycled shelters created by West Oakland sculptor and activist Greg Kloehn.

In addition, organizations such as California 4-H, Urban Tilth and others will be exhibiting at the event and offering children a variety of additional activities and arts-and-crafts projects over the course of the day. At the Urban Tilth station, kids will be able to select ingredients for smoothies, then blend them up by hopping on a bicycle and pedaling like mad. Other healthy snacks will be available, too.

Though the event is open to kids of all ages, Gardiner notes that the activities probably work best for children who are preschool-age or older. Kids under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.